Chinese lanterns play a part at Diwali

Diwali, the festival of lights, was this year celebrated throughout Britain on the 17th October, making way for abundant feasts, togetherness, fireworks and of course Chinese lanterns being set off into the sky once night fell.
For one Guardian reporter, this year marked a realisation in her of how multicultural and accepting Britain has become in the past years, that Diwali is widely celebrated, as well as being understood by those outside of the Hindu community. Not only did Leicester host the biggest Diwali celebration outside of India, but the House of Commons also held their own party.
Poorna Shetty remarked on how, as a child, her explanation of the celebration was met with confused stares from her peers, and sometimes even ridiculed. Even with the British National Party gaining more seats in this year’s election than has been the case for years, Shetty notes that as a nation, we embrace cultures and traditions that are not home grown, more than ever.
We love to read your stories and see your photos- if you have any of your own Diwali celebrations, and if you set off any Chinese lanterns in the evening, then it would be great to hear from you! Leave a comment at the bottom of this blog, or email us your photos. All of the addresses and contact numbers you need can be found on our contact page.